Wingstop issues major update over future of its UK restaurants

Wingstop issues major update over future of its UK restaurants
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


A US fast food chain that’s reportedly "better than KFC" is set to open 20 more branches this year. Wingstop, which currently has 57 sites across the UK, has revealed plans to open 20 more - after enjoying great success here in Birmingham.

Wingstop UK said at least 10 new locations will open in the first half of the year. These will include dine-in restaurants in Swansea, Newcastle, Lakeside shopping centre in Essex, Streatham in south London and Cardigan Fields in Leeds.

Chris Sherriff, chief executive at Wingstop UK, said in a statement: “2024 has been a landmark year for Wingstop UK, marked by record site openings, a new flagship location and industry accolades. This year we are poised for even greater growth, with plans to expand into new regions and create hundreds of jobs."

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: Sainsbury's warns shoppers face £85 fines for breaking new 90-minute rule

READ MORE: Birmingham St Patrick's Day Parade organisers announce huge change for 2025 event

READ MORE UK set for 13cm snow bomb with 'exact hour' flurries start announced

He added: "Thank you to the brilliant work of all our employees, who drive us to keep growing, while providing a personalised and authentic experience to wing lovers up and down the country. There is huge momentum and we can’t wait to bring our flavours to more areas across the UK.”

Wingstop currently operates 57 sites across the UK, employing more than 2,500 people, following a rapid expansion programme. The business opened 18 new locations last year, including its largest site, at Westfield Stratford in east London.

Last month, US private equity firm Sixth Street struck a deal to buy a majority stake in Wingstop UK’s master franchisee, Lemon Pepper Holdings. It is understood the deal valued the business at more than £400 million.

Sixth Street, which is an investor in the 2,000-strong US-based Wingstop Inc business, said it plans to help the business grow further in the UK. Wingstop continues to operate a restaurant in Birmingham in the iconic Bullring shopping centre in the city centre.